Bar
Problem Child
A Makati cocktail bar opened in September 2025 that reinvents its menu, look and uniforms every three months, ranked 44th in Asia's 50 Best Bars 2026.
The Curator
A Legazpi Village coffee shop that turns into a speakeasy at night, behind a hidden door, and a ten-year fixture of the Asia's 50 Best Bars lists.
At a glance
- Type
- Café by day, speakeasy by night
- Area
- Legazpi Village, Makati, Manila, Philippines
- Price
- $$$ · Upscale
Good to know
- Hidden bar
- Coffee
- Cocktails
- Wine
Why we recommend it
The Curator is two places in one. By day it is a coffee shop in Legazpi Village, Makati, and at night a hidden door at the back leads into a cosy lounge where the bar takes over. It was founded by David Ong and Bernice Tiu and debuted at number 16 in Asia's 50 Best Bars in 2016.
It went on to appear on the list for ten consecutive years, placing 33rd in 2024 and 78th in the extended 51 to 100 list in 2025. It did not appear in 2026, but its long run on the list makes it a reference point for the city's cocktail scene. Its specialty is all things caffeinated, which makes sense for a bar that shares a home with a coffee shop.
The menu pairs stories with cocktails, so it is worth asking the bartenders to explain a drink before you order. Coffee-based cocktails are a natural choice here, and it is worth describing what you like and letting the bartenders suggest something.
The lounge is small and intimate, which is part of its appeal but means it fills up quickly. Arrive early in the evening, especially at weekends, and check the bar's social channels for opening times and any guest bartender nights. Dress is smart casual. Prices are similar to other leading Makati cocktail bars.
Visiting in the daytime first is a good way to find the entrance before you come back at night, as the hidden door is part of the experience and can be easy to miss in the dark. Seating is limited, so smaller groups of two to four have the best chance of getting in without a long wait. If the lounge is full, ask whether you can wait in the café at the front until seats open up.
The Curator is in the Legaspi Parkview Condominium at the corner of Legaspi and C. Palanca streets, within walking distance of many hotels and restaurants in Legazpi Village. Combine it with dinner at Sarsa or Your Local nearby, or with Big Fuzz for a second drink. It suits couples, solo drinkers happy at the bar and anyone interested in the history of Manila's modern bar culture. Come in the daytime for coffee if you want to see both sides of the place.
The Curator FAQs
What is The Curator?
A coffee shop by day with a speakeasy-style bar behind a hidden door at night.
Who founded it?
David Ong and Bernice Tiu.
Has it been on Asia's 50 Best Bars?
Yes, for ten consecutive years from 2016, including 33rd in 2024 and 78th in 2025.
What is it known for?
Its specialty in caffeinated drinks and story-led cocktails.
Where is it?
In Legaspi Parkview Condominium, 134 Legaspi Street corner C. Palanca Street, Legazpi Village, Makati.
Is it busy?
The lounge is small, so arrive early, especially at weekends.
Can you visit during the day?
Yes, the front is a coffee shop.
What is the dress code?
Smart casual.